Hirsutism -- excess of androgen (a steroid hormone that stimulates development of male sex organs and secondary sexual characteristics). This overproduction of androgen could result from certain drugs or conditions.

What to Expect at Your Provider's Office

If you have symptoms associated with a hair disorder, you should see your health care provider. A physical exam can help identify the type of hair disorder, and laboratory tests can reveal any underlying diseases. In the case of hirsutism, imaging may help diagnose the cause.

Treatment Options

Prevention

Eating a well-balanced diet and avoiding potentially damaging hair treatments can help prevent some types of hair loss.

Treatment Plan

The primary goals of treatment are to treat the underlying cause, regrow the hair when possible, and correct damaging grooming practices.

Drug Therapies

Your health care provider may prescribe the following medications:

Alopecia:

Minoxidil (Rogaine), for hair regrowth and possibly to prevent further loss

Herbs

Herbs may help strengthen and tone the body's systems. As with any therapy, you should work with your health care provider before starting treatment.

You may use herbs as dried extracts (capsules, powders, teas), glycerites (glycerine extracts), or tinctures (alcohol extracts). Unless otherwise indicated, make teas with 1 tsp. herb per cup of hot water. Steep covered 5 - 10 minutes for leaf or flowers, and 10 - 20 minutes for roots. Drink 2 - 4 cups per day. You may use tinctures alone or in combination as noted.

For alopecia and hair shaft disorders:

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) standardized extract, 40 - 80 mg, 3 times daily, for antioxidant support and blood flow. Ginkgo may increase bleeding in sensitive individuals, such as those taking blood-thinning medications, including aspirin. Ginkgo may not be appropriate for people who have diabetes, infertility, seizure history, or bleeding disorders. Speak with your physician.

Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) standardized extract, 160 mg, 2 times daily, for hormonal support. Saw palmetto may interact with some hormone therapies, including birth control, and may increase the blood-thinning effects of certain medications, such as aspirin and warfarin (Coumadin).

Homeopathy

Although few studies have examined the effectiveness of specific homeopathic therapies, professional homeopaths may consider the following remedies for the treatment of gastritis symptoms (such as nausea and vomiting) based on their knowledge and experience. Before prescribing a remedy, homeopaths take into account your constitutional type -- your physical, emotional, and psychological makeup. An experienced homeopath assesses all of these factors when determining the most appropriate treatment.

Some of the most common remedies include Ignatia, Pulsatilla, and Sepia. Acute dose is 3 - 5 pellets of 12X to 30 C every 1 - 4 hours until symptoms are relieved.

Acupuncture and Massage

Acupuncture may help alleviate symptoms of hair loss. Acupuncture may help enhance immune function, normalize digestion, and address disease conditions.

Although not all abnormal hair loss is associated with stress, psychological stress can alter thyroid and sex hormone levels in the body, potentially leading to hair loss. Yoga, prayer, guided imagery, and a variety of other methods may help retrain your body's response to stress. Group support can also be a vital component of any stress reduction plan and can have measurable physiological impact.

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